After a few days of much-needed rain, the skies cleared to make for a beautiful opening weekend of this year’s Sanding Ovations sand sculpture competition. With sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-70s, who could ask for anything more?

The event’s theme was “It’s About Time” and it was fascinating to see all the different interpretations. One of the sculptures there was a young woman taking time to smell the roses, and a working sundial, while another was titled, “Clocktopus”.

The people’s choice award went to the Jimmy Buffett tribute, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere”. Fittingly, Saturday ended with live music by the Landsharks Band (which was Jimmy Buffett’s opening act for many years).

The festival will continue next weekend, though the artwork could remain into the New Year (if the elements allow). Walking barefoot on the beach in mid-November, not a bad way to spend time!